by Contributor
This bike is about to be auctioned off…the famous bike that Pee-Wee Herman saddled in the movie, “Pe-Wee’s Big Adventure.”
The Most Famous Bicycle in the History of Film will Go to Auction May 3-4, 2025 at Van Eaton Galleries
Los Angeles, California – April 25, 2025 – Van Eaton Galleries, the premier gallery and auction house for Disneyana, classic animation and pop culture has announced the “Pop Culture: Collection of Jay Ward” auction to take place May 3, 2025 and May 4, 2025. The highlight of the massive auction is the most famous bicycle in entertainment history – Pee-wee Herman’s screen used bicycle ridden by Paul Reubens.
With his short pants, iconic voice, bow tie and childlike persona, Pee-wee Herman, personified by actor Paul Reubens, was a movie and television personality who became one of the biggest stars of television and film in a category all by himself. On May 3rd, the bicycle that Pee-wee rode and crashed into a curb will hit the auction block for the very first time in Los Angeles.
The screen used (Warner Brothers, 1985) stunt bicycle from “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” is one of only 14 bikes used during production of the classic film. There were 13 created by Pedal Pusher vintage bike shop in Newport Beach, with this one custom-built by Gary Littlejohn, a stuntman who helped create the world’s first BMX bikes. This particular bicycle is one of the only surviving bikes that can be screen-matched to exact moments in the film.
The bike is seen as Pee-wee crashes into a curb and says “I meant to do that,” during the Warner Brothers lot chase as Pee-wee rockets over the house and Paul Reubens swings on a vine like Tarzan.
This is a rare opportunity to own one of the most iconic props of the 1980s, from the first feature-length film directed by Tim Burton.
Paul Reubens
Paul Reubens burst into celebrity as Pee-wee Herman with the success of his Groundlings Comedy Production “The Pee-Wee Herman Show” as an HBO Special in September of 1981 He quickly charmed audiences with his child-like naivete and joy for play. Warner Brothers hired Reubens to write a full-length Pee-wee Herman film, which he first conceived as a remake of Disney’s “Pollyanna” with Pee-wee in the title role. But noticing employees riding bikes around the studio lot, Reuben’s requested one of his own, and began writing “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” the unforgettable story of a boy and the most famous bicycle in cinema history.
In act three of the film, Reubens as Pee-wee is fleeing from security on the Warner Brothers lot when he and the bike swing across a lake Tarzan-style on a vine. This bike also makes the landing that immediately follows the vine, and the rocket-over-the-house ending in which Pee-wee escapes the Studio. This one-of-a-kind stunt bike frame and fork were custom-built by Gary Littlejohn who also was a pioneer designer in the early days of BMX bikes. The bike still exhibits wear from the original film usage. The bike bears a gleaming replica “Property of Pee-wee Herman” plaque behind the seat.
The Auction Event
The “Pop Culture: Collection of Jay Ward” auction begins at 10:00 a.m. PT on May 3rd and wil continue on May 4th. Details of the massive auction can be viewed at vwww.vegalleries.com. The public exhibition of the auction takes place at Van Eaton Galleries located at 12160 Ventura Blvd in Studio City, California until May 1, 2025.
Celebrating 30 years in business, Van Eaton Galleries & Auctions is the go-place to find pop culture memorabilia, animation art, and Disneyana. In addition to major catalog and online auctions featuring impressive exhibitions, Van Eaton runs a retail gallery featuring production drawings and collectibles that is open to the public.
by June Miller Richards
First-Ever “Jazz Girls Day” in California To Take Place at Idyllwild Arts Academy on Sunday, March 2, 2025
California is about to witness a historic celebration of music and empowerment as Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts its very first Jazz Girls Day. Set against the stunning backdrop of the academy’s mountain campus, this free, daylong clinic — running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 2 — is dedicated to female-identifying improvising musicians between the ages of 10 and 18.
Originally founded by Dr. Colleen Clark in 2021 and supported through her role at the University of South Carolina, Jazz Girls Day aims to bridge the gender gap in jazz, a genre historically dominated by men. The initiative offers a dynamic blend of masterclasses, jam sessions and a live concert, ensuring that young participants of all experience levels are welcomed and challenged in a supportive environment — all without the pressure of an audition.
Dr. Clark’s initiative aims to inspire students across the country, and while it’s already landed in many other states, this will be its first time in California amidst her ongoing vision to help cohost a Jazz Girls Day event in all 50 states by 2030. The program puts the spotlight on the future of women in jazz and aims to repair the disparities.
Alex McLaughlin, the newly appointed director of the Jazz Program at Idyllwild Arts Academy, shares his excitement: “Idyllwild Arts is thrilled to be the first in California to host Jazz Girls Day. This event is a wonderful opportunity for young musicians to explore their creativity, learn from some of the best in the business and connect with peers who share their passion for jazz. We encourage families, teachers, mentors and friends to support these talented girls as they embark on this musical journey.”
McLaughlin also noted that research presented at the recent Jazz Education Network (JEN) Conference revealed that participants in Jazz Girls Day are more likely to continue pursuing their musical interests — especially after experiencing the unique opportunity to perform with an all-female band. This transformative experience not only builds musical skills but also fosters a deeper, more confident perspective on what it means to be a musician.
Join Idyllwild Arts Academy (52500 Temecula Rd #38, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA) on March 2, 2025, for a day of inspiration, learning and community that promises to empower the next generation of jazz musicians.
Registration is still open, and interested participants and their supporters can sign up at Idyllwild Arts Academy’s Jazz Girls Day event page.
by Dennis Richardson
The holiday that’s all about love is near, and we could all use more love in our lives. If you’re looking forward to getting out of the house and enjoying the flurry of themed celebrations, we’ve got a well-rounded rundown of what you can look forward to.
The NOW Massage
Looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in LA? The NOW Massage is the perfect place to unwind — whether you’re looking to treat your special someone or indulge in some self-care.
Offering high-quality, customizable massages at an affordable price, The NOW has a variety of massages and enhancements that have a plethora of benefits. With locations in Silver Lake, Woodland Hills, Santa Monica, Studio City, West Hollywood, and more your Valentine’s Day dreams can become a reality. They also offer digital gift cards if you need a last-minute gift!
Proper Hotels
Looking for the ultimate spot to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re after a cozy lounge, a rooftop with a view, or an elegant multi-course dinner, Proper Hotels’ Santa Monica and Downtown LA locations are setting the scene for an unforgettable night.
Santa Monica:
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Palma Lounge (4:00 PM – 10:30 PM): An intimate hideaway offering indulgent Valentine’s specials like Black Truffle Cacio e Pepe and fresh oysters, with live entertainment to set the mood.
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Calabra Rooftop (5:00 PM – 10:30 PM): Experience a luxurious three-course tasting menu while taking in the stunning views atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel. This intimate experience is designed to ignite all the senses. $110 per person.
Downtown LA:
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Dahlia (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM): Enjoy a romantic escape in Dahlia’s intimate lounge with freshly brewed teas, bubbly, and decadent pastries for $70 per person. The perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
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Caldo Verde (5:00 PM – 11:00 PM): This elegant dining experience features a four-course menu, including Ricotta Gnocchi & Lobster and Braised Beef Short Rib, all for $120. Embrace the romance of this luxe spot for a Valentine’s to remember.
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Cara Cara (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM): Head to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city while indulging in a three-course dinner, including fresh, seasonal dishes. $120 per person.
Whether you’re in Downtown LA or Santa Monica, Proper Hotels offer stunning settings, special menus, and great ambiance for Valentine’s Day.
Caldo Verde
Located on the ground floor of the striking, Kelly Wearstler-designed Downtown LA Proper Hotel, Valentine’s Day at Caldo Verde offers a romantic respite amidst the whirring bustle of Downtown Los Angeles. Partake in a special menu from James Beard Award-winner Suzanne Goin and executive chef Tiffany dela Pena, starting with a Citrus and Burrata Salad with pistachios, fresno chilis, and avocado, and a Lobster Ricotta Gnocchi with stinging nettles and harissa breadcrumbs.
Photo Credit: Caldo Verde
Choose between Salmon with a red beet purée and green garlic toum or Braised Beef Short Ribs, and complete the meal with an ultra-luxurious Chocolate Basque Cheesecake by pastry chef Irene Widjaya, adorned with candied kumquats, caramel pretzel crunch, and espresso bourbon ice cream.
Cara Cara Rooftop
For all you romantics out there, Valentine’s day at Cara Cara Rooftop offers endless skyline views from its expansive, Kelly Wearstler-designed outdoor space and lushly landscaped (and heated!) lower lounge.
Photo Credit: Cara Cara
Cozy up to your loved one in one of the many warm seating arrangements or sit by a fire pit and partake in an innovative seasonal cocktail or a wine curated by James Beard Award-winning Caroline Styne. With an all-day menu from James Beard Award-winner Suzanne Goin and Executive Chef Tiffany dela Pena, think Potato Focaccia with braised leeks, fontina, and kaluga caviar, Grilled Branzino with arroz caldo and green garlic butter, Braised Wagyu Beef Cheeks with riojana and parsley-mustard salsa, and homemade Lemon Bars with white chocolate ginger crémeux and raspberry pearls.
San Laurel by José Andrés Group
Perched on the 10th floor lobby of the sleek Conrad Los Angeles with breathtaking views of Walt Disney Concert Hall, San Laurel is celebrating Valentine’s day with a special shareable tasting menu by executive chef Jeffry Chen, showcasing the restaurant’s California Cuisine through José Andrés’ signature Spanish lens. Highlights of the menu include iterations of San Laurel favorites such as a “Snowball” – a delicate, single-bite frozen cocktail on ice, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, and Caviar.
Starters include a smoked Hawaiian Kanpachi with kumquats, black lime, and citrus gel, followed by Scallops with idiazabal cheese foam and a Flat Iron Wagyu with oyster mushrooms, black garlic, and veal jus. For dessert (and a romantic finish), the restaurant is serving a strawberry rhubarb Eton Mess finished with hibiscus and mint.
Zaytina Culver City
This Valentine’s Day, be one of the first couples to experience José Andrés first west coast location of Zaytinya, recently opened at The Shay. Zaytinya, which originated in Washington, DC, in 2002, blends JAG’s celebrated hospitality and excellence with Los Angeles’ creative spirit and California’s abundance of produce and hyperlocal ingredients.
Photo Credit: Katrina Frederick
Guests experiencing Zaytinya for the first time will be greeted with the restaurant’s signature breezy, romantic ambiance, evoking the Mediterranean with a dining room awash with navy blue hues, birch wood chairs, mismatched hanging lamps, and potted olive trees, and a special Valentine’s day menu to match.
Butterfly
Celebrate your special someone at Butterfly by José Andrés Group, Culver City’s newest rooftop restaurant and bar, located atop The Shay and offering panoramic views of Los Angeles. Elevated by the rooftop’s embrace, Butterfly’s rosy, lush atmosphere intertwines the vibrant spirit of Mexican mythologies with familiar flavors.
Photo Credit: Katrina Frederick
Couples experiencing Butterfly for the first time can expect a menu rooted in tacos and ceviches that feel both timeless and freshly reimagined – think Ceviche Citricos, bass in a pineapple-habanero marinade, Hongos en Molito tacos with poblanos, Mexican crema, onions and cilantro, and a cocktail list that leans into additive-free, pollinator-friendly agave spirits imbued with California fruits. To capture the full experience of Butterfly, be sure to pair your meal with José Andrés beloved Salt Air Margarita.
One-Night-Only, Prix-Fixe Menu at La Dolce Vita
Snag one of the one-night-only, prix-fixe reservations at La Dolce Vita, the legendary old Hollywood hangout that has been one of Beverly Hills’ hottest reservations since it reopened under new owners Marc Rose and Med Abrous of Call Mom Hospitality in spring 2023.
Photo Credit: Shelby Moore
Nowhere does romance (or ambience!) quite like this intimate restaurant, which originally opened in 1966 with Frank Sinatra and George Raft as investors. Tuck into a curated menu that pays homage to classic Italian-American favorites while snuggled into the sexy, maximalist, all-booth dining room or handsome bar area, enveloped by a chic cheetah print carpet and plush emerald walls. Catch all the details below:
Date: Friday, February 14th
Offering: For Valentine’s Day only, the restaurant will be serving a 4-course prix-fixe menu with an optional wine pairing addition by wine director, Gabriel Perez. Menu choice highlights include these dishes exclusive to Valentine’s Day: Wagyu Beef Tartare, Spicy Lobster Ravioli, Pork Saltimbocca, and a decadent Cannoli Cream Gelato to finish. A full menu can be found here.
Price: $195 per person
Address: 9785 S. Santa Monica Blvd in Beverly Hills
Reservations can be made here.
Beverly Bar
Local-loved
Beverly Bar recently launched some fun daily specials for those who need an excuse to dine out — making this the ultimate Valentine’s Day opportunity for those who prefer to spend time together before, during, or after the crowds drawn out for the holiday.
On
Sunday, look for $35 for a pasta entree + a glass of cabernet or sauvignon blanc. Choose from spicy rigatoni, creamy truffle fettuccini, chicken or eggplant parm with marinara pasta. Plus any/all bottles of wine 50%. Available all day.
Credit: Beverly Bar
Monday means $12 martinis, 8 different varieties from espresso to lychee to dirty. Available all day.
Tuesday includes $12-14 tequila cocktails, $14 chips and guac or queso, and $19 Taco trio plates, available with shrimp, salmon, steak, or chicken, loaded with fajita veggies, guacamole, jalapeño crema, and fresh herbs. Available all day.
And
every day, Happy Hour takes place from 2-6pm, including $9 house wines, $7 beers, $12-14 classic cocktails, and shareable snacks like avo-hummus, shishito peppers, and truffle fries. Enjoy a cocktail and app before a dinner reservation, or after, to share their to-die-for butter cake and an espresso martini if lovers want to keep the night going.
Cesare Ristorante
Cesare Ristorante, the cozy Italian spot in Beverly Grove owned by the same family as Madeo, is offering a 4-course pre-fixe
menu for $90 for V-day, including mouth watering Italian dishes such as Branzino, Calamari, and OssoBuco, and decadent pastas that lovers can eat lady-and-the-tramp style. The vino list is extensive, capable of wining and dining ant date.
Cutwater’s Tasting Room
Cutwater’s Tasting Room and Kitchen is turning on the charm by dedicating the month of February to love with Valentine’s Day-inspired cocktails! Whether you’re celebrating with your significant other, making plans with your Galentine, or simply looking for an excuse to sip something delicious, Cutwater’s Tasting Room is the place to be this season.
The Cutwater & Chocolate Pairing Tour Experience:
This $20 guided tasting pairs Cutwater spirits with decadent chocolates in a thoughtfully curated sensory experience by Cutwater’s Head of Innovation, Gwen Conley.
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Dates: Fridays through Sundays from February 1–28
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Available Hourly: 12pm-7pm Friday and Saturday and 12pm-4pm on Sundays
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Cost: $20 – purchase here
Your 50-minute journey includes:
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A specialty flight featuring: Strawberry White Russian, Tiki Rum Mai Tai, and Tiki Gold Rum
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Perfectly paired chocolates: Milk Chocolate Hearts, Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans, and White Chocolate Truffles
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Complimentary Take-Home Gift
Photo Credit: Cutwater
The Cutwater Cocktails & Charcuterie Event:
You and your +1 will learn from our world-class bartenders how to make the “Coming Up Roses” cocktail, as well as piecing together a beautiful charcuterie board. Each ticket includes two cocktails, one Cutwater branded Charcuterie board with cheese, meat and accoutrements, two hour guided instruction, and a discount on spirit and bar merchandise to bring the experience to your next home gathering.
Last, but not least, Cutwater will have a Valentine’s Specialty Cocktail Menu at The Tasting Room from Thursday, 2/6- Sunday, 2/16 where you can treat yourself to a specialty “That 50’s Flight” featuring the Dark Cherry Cola, Malt Shop, and Opah Float cocktails! Reservations can be made here.
SUGARED + BRONZED
There’s nothing sweeter than a little pampering, and now there’s a new location for your valentine’s hair removal and tanning needs. SUGARED + BRONZED– the go-to destination across the nation for hair removal and sunless tanning- is officially opening its new LA storefront in the Culver City neighborhood on Monday, February 10th! This is the brand’s 11th LA location.
Located in the heart of Culver City, this state-of-the-art studio provides clients with a streamlined, natural approach to hair removal and tanning, while also making the experience feel luxurious with a beautiful, upbeat, and welcoming space. Through personalized services, which include sugaring (a gentle alternative to traditional waxing) and natural-looking airbrush tans, SUGARED + BRONZED delivers smooth, flawless, and glow-enhancing results that make clients feel their best. Further, to ensure that every client gets the best-in-class results, all Sugaristas and Sprayers are rigorously trained in-house.
The new storefront is located at 6150 Washington Blvd. and will be open 7 days a week with varying hours by day. See the full list of locations here.
Valentine’s Day Celebration with Pinstripes
Pinstripes at Westfield Topanga is excited to share their upcoming Galentine’s Day celebration on February 13th from 7pm-9pm PT. Round up your gals and treat yourselves to a luxurious night at the Pinstripes Galentine’s event!
Get ready to wine and dine with an exclusive wine tasting and pairing experience perfectly paired with a delectable charcuterie arrangement. Indulge in their glamorous buffet, chocolate fountain, and plenty of red and white wine to keep the night flowing. Reservations can be made here.
Where: Westfield Topanga
6600 CA-27 #9038, Canoga Park, CA 91303
Minor Figures x Heavy Water Coffee Shop
Celebrate your love for coffee with Minor Figures and Heavy Water Coffee Shop in Los Angeles as they gear up for their XOXOAT Freedays offer. This Friday, the first 50 customers to order Heavy Water’s limited-time Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha will receive it for FREE!
This indulgent beverage features Minor Figures Organic Barista Oat Milk and is crafted with a rich combination of sweet and tart strawberry flavors and smooth, vibrant matcha notes. Additional participating shops nationwide include:
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Sapor Coffee – 2795 Speer Blvd UNIT 17, Denver, CO 80211
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First Light Books – 4300 Speedway, Unit 104, Austin, TX 78751
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Homage Coffee – 5000 20th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
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Pip + Clay – 2617 N 24th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
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Saint Frank – 2340 Polk St. San Francisco, CA 94109
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Upper Left Roasters – 1204 SE Clay St, Portland, OR 97214
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Harbor Coffee – 331 Elizabeth St NE suite c, Atlanta, GA 30307
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The Den – 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington DC 20008
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Nelson the Seagull – 315 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B2J4
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Topos Bookstore – 788 Woodward Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385
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Gracenote Coffee – 108 Lincoln St, Boston, MA 02111
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The Understudy – 5531 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
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Second Rodeo Coffee – 124 Sawyer St, South Portland, ME 04106
Andaz West Hollywood
This one’s a bonus! While it isn’t a Valentine’s Day event, it does take place a few days before for the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl will be a chance for Eagles and Chiefs fans to rally around their favorite team – and those looking to enjoy their favorite Super Bowl snacks can hop over to Riot House Restaurant, located at lobby level of Andaz West Hollywood!
Riot House Restaurant will be serving a special collection of Super Bowl classics, including Chorizo Queso Dip, served with fresh tortilla chips; Nachos loaded with cheese sauce, pico de gallo, lime crema, and jalapenos; as well as the classic Superbowl Wings – flavored with Adobo and Fried Garlic.
Special drinks include the Kandsas City Tequila Sunrise – a refreshing cocktail for fans of the Chiefs – a Philly Gridiron Mule for fans of the Eagles – and Beer priced at $6 for those just looking to enjoy the game.
These Super Bowl specials will be available Sunday, February 9, at Andaz West Hollywood, the iconic rock-n-roll hotel where legends like Led Zeppelin, The Doors, and The Rolling Stones once called home.
by Contributor
Yes! The Hotel Figueroa has partnered with I Am a Voter to serve as a polling place from October 26-November 5th. If you are unfamiliar with this iconic hotel, this could be a great reason to visit.
This year, amidst another pivotal presidential election season, the historic Hotel Figueroa, one of Los Angeles’ most iconic hotels and a Travel + Leisure ‘World’s Best’ award recipient, is continuing its legacy as a community pillar and mainstay by announcing that the hotel will once again serve as an official polling place from October 26 – November 5 for the 2024 Presidential Election. In partnership with I Am A Voter, a nonpartisan organization creating a cultural shift around voting and civic engagement, and with the hotel’s deep roots centered around empowering women, recently celebrating its own 98th birthday, and the ongoing importance of civic engagement, Hotel Figueroa is proud to provide a space for its community to participate in this crucial democratic process.
Photos above: Hotel Figueroa, Now & Then: From 1926 to 2024
L.A. locals voting at Hotel Figueroa will be directed to the hotel’s historic Gran Sala event space to cast their ballots in a welcoming and accessible environment for the ten days leading up to the election and on Election Day itself:
- Saturday, October 26 to Monday, November 4, 2024: Voting open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day): Voting open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The iconic hotel boasts a rich history deeply rooted in the women’s movement in Los Angeles. Funded and built by women in 1926 as an exclusive women’s hostel by the YWCA, Hotel Figueroa was “financed, built and operated by and for femininity,” according to a Los Angeles Times article at the time, and was the largest project of its kind in the United States to be financed, owned, and operated by women.” For years, the space has served as a meeting place for practically every women’s club in Los Angeles, and it proudly holds true to its founding roots to this day.
“With a near-century-long history of serving our Downtown Los Angeles community, Hotel Figueroa is proud to welcome voters by opening up our Gran Sala ballroom as a safe, convenient, and accessible place to vote in 2024,” said Managing Director Connie Wang.
The hotel’s on-site bar and lounge, Bar Magnolia, will be open daily from 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. throughout the election period, offering a 10% discount to guests who present an “I Voted” sticker while enjoying a curated selection of European-inspired spirits alongside a light, all-day small plates menu.
Hotel Figueroa is located at 939 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. For more information on Hotel Figueroa as a polling place during the 2024 Presidential Election, please visit www.hotelfigueroa.com or https://iamavoter.com/.
About Hotel Figueroa
Hotel Figueroa remains one of the only preserved treasures in Downtown Los Angeles with a uniquely independent spirit and luxury brand authentic only to the City of Angels. Originally opened in 1926 as an exclusive women’s hostelry, the iconic destination underwent an extensive redesign in 2018 that pays tribute to its rich history, melding original 1920s Spanish Colonial splendor with contemporary touches that celebrate its deep roots in Los Angeles. Hotel Figueroa’s reimagination exceeds the expectations of the new generation of guests, with 268 guest rooms and suites that are distinctively engaging. An ever-evolving art program offers museum-quality installations from local artists and literary collections from Los Angeles-based authors. New and exciting culinary experiences include the hotel’s newly debuted Mediterranean and Aegean Sea-inspired flagship dining destination, Deme, all-day Café Fig, and lobby mainstay, Bar Magnolia. Expansive and intimate private event venues, including the Gran Sala ballroom space span 10,000 square feet in addition to a lushly landscaped pool area.
Funny the things that matter. There have been documentaries made about nightclubs, dancehalls, theaters and landmarks. The Cinerama Dome is one such location that has figured a lot in my life. I recall going there in the early 60s to see some silly film called “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” Through the years I often spend time there. The screen was huge and the sound exquisite.
